Jackson-area obituaries: John Crosby, 96, B-24 pilot during World War II, shot down and held as a prison of war for 18 months in Germany

CROSBY, JOHN ALLEN of Jackson, born January 16, 1918 in Middleton, Massachusetts to Allen and Alice (McHugh) Crosby, peacefully passed away on February 5, 2014 surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Margaret Booth, Ruth Downs, Louise Naylor, Helen Shannahoff, Jean Osgood and one brother Robert Crosby. He is survived by Mary, his loving wife of 66 years, his children Lawrence (Frances) Crosby, Mary Frances Crosby, Elaine Crosby, daughter-in-law Judy Crosby, grandchildren, Ryan (Jennifer) Crosby, Valerie Crosby, and two great-granddaughters Natalie and Kathleen. He was a graduate of Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. John served as a lieutenant in the Army Air Corps in World War II. As a B-24 pilot, he flew numerous missions over Italy and Germany, was shot down, held as a POW in Germany for 18 months, and then liberated by the Russians. For his valor he was awarded the Purple Heart and Air Medal. On October 23, 1947 he married Mary Sullivan in Gross Point Park, Michigan. In 1962 they moved to Jackson when John accepted a sales position with Hayes Industries. At the time of his retirement he was the Vice President of Sales and Engineering. John enjoyed time with family and friends especially if it included a round of golf. He was a proud member of the Jackson Country Club, avid University of Michigan football fan, and an active member of Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church.